Staff work hard for smooth student transitions

It's almost Orientation time again and staff in the Student and Academic Services Division have been working hard to make sure that commencing students experience an exciting and informative welcome to our University.

University-wide collaboration

Planning for Orientation began in October 2011. The Orientation Steering Committee, chaired by the Academic Registrar, has been meeting regularly since. This group consists of stakeholders from both Faculties and Divisions. Other sub-groups have also been meeting to ensure that a consistent and collaborative approach to the delivery of Orientation week is possible.

Pulling it all together

The Student Experience and Transition unit (SET) have been given responsibility for the co-ordination of the event this year and have been busy organising the program as well as many other activities and initiatives to introduce in Orientation Week. SET staff met with all the Assistant Deans Teaching and Learning to outline the Orientation program and seek input into the week's program.

Exciting changes to the program

This year you will see the introduction of Orientation Assistants, previously called SOS Mentors. These dedicated students will help guide the students around the campus, cook the bbq's and generally keep an eye out for any students looking lost or in need of a chat. You can't miss these students, they wear the bright yellow shirts!  Be sure to give them a friendly smile.

Some of the activities and experiences students can expect this year are:

  • Speed chat - students from similar programs will have a chance to make new friends in a fun atmosphere 
  • BBQ lunches for all students
  • Students welcome bags - packed full of informative and interesting give-aways
  • Newies shout - finish off the day with friends at the Bar on Hill, listening to music and having a refreshment 
  • Orientation website - check it out!  It includes the new Student Services videos, which replace the student support services workshops ran in previous years
  • An exciting International program to welcome students from around the globe, including an Amazing Race around our campus, Dolphin Watching, City and Beach Tours and a Safety and Security Forum.
Orientation Week is Monday 20 February - Friday 24 February 2012